Compression Osteosynthesis - An Effective Solution for Hypertrophic Nonunion of Tibia in Children

Hypertrophic non-union of the tibia is rare in children. Gradual deformity correction by distraction osteogenesis is the conventional management strategy for this problem. In cases with significant multiplanar deformities, this needs careful pre-operative planning and execution that involves long periods of "dynamic" phase of Ilizarov method.

We devised a simpler strategy of complete intraoperative deformity correction in one or two stages followed by compression osteosynthesis. We report the good outcome in four patients (3 males, and 1 female, age 4--years) with regard to union, alignment, limb length, and function, with significantly short duration of the "dynamic" phase of Ilizarov osteosynthesis.

Acute deformity correction and compression osteosynthesis is are an effective strategy in hypertrophic non-union of tibia in children. This is applicable for cases with significant deformity without shortening. This considerably shortens the "dynamic" phase of Ilizaov osteosynthesis, facilitating early return to home of patients who need to travel long distances for treatment.